Now that Blu-ray players can be had for under £100, it might seem rather ludicrous to be shelling out £1,899. But Denon is targeting the connoisseur with its new DBP-4010UD. Using technologies from its ‘reference class’ DVD-A1UD, it promises the ultimate high definition experience, but also universal compatibility with any media you may want to throw at it.

The DBP-4010UD can cope with DVD-Audio and Super Audio CDs as well as the expected Blu-ray, DVD and CD discs. Audio in MP3, WMA, WAV and AAC formats is supported, alongside JPEG, Kodak Picture CD and Fujicolor CD images. AVCHD recorded on DVD+/-R or RW can be played, too. However, one format missing from the list is DivX-HD, although other forms of DivX are compatible, from version 3.11 to 6, including VOD files. There’s also a slot for SD Flash memory media as well, but this only supports Blu-ray Bonus material, MP3, WMA and JPEG.

With so many video types and resolutions possible, the scaler needs to be good, and the DBP-4010UD packs a top-of-the-range 10-bit ABT2010 system, which can enhance every format from 480i to 1080p24. This incorporates Denon Pixel Image Correction (DPIC), which improves curved lines by sampling pixels surrounding the target pixels. The 6-block construction helps avoid electronic interference from mechanical parts, too.

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The BD Drive mechanism itself incorporates Denon’s new SVH system, which minimises vibration and noise levels whilst heightening precision. This is further enhanced by Direct Mechanical Ground Construction, which again reduces vibration. Naturally, the HDMI link supports version 1.3a, but Denon Link is also available to minimise jitter from signal transmission over HDMI. It goes without saying that this player supports Profile 2.0 via a built-in Ethernet port for accessing BD Live content.

With so many technologies included to improve the picture, it’s no surprise that the DBP-4010UD’s image quality is unparalleled. Colours are vivid and detail sharp, bringing out the best in Blu-ray content and making the most of lesser formats. Black levels are so good that every nuance in areas of shadow is visible.

The Denon DBP-4010UD is an incredibly expensive Blu-ray player, but it does deliver the very best features and picture quality. Compromises in either area will get you something almost as good for a lot less, but if you’re not willing to compromise, Denon cuts no corners whatsoever.